Mexico's Volaris selects San Jose as third US gateway

Mexico's Volaris has firmed up plans to launch services to San Jose in California.

The low-cost carrier says in a statement today that San Jose will become its third US destination on 30 April. Volaris, which last year launched flights to Oakland and Los Angeles, will serve San Jose with one daily flight from Guadalajara using Airbus A320 family aircraft.

Last month Volaris submitted an application to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) seeking permission to serve both San Jose and Chicago from Guadalajara. The DOT granted Volaris' request on 8 March but the carrier has not yet said when or if it will go ahead with the proposed Guadalajara-Chicago service.

"San Jose is the third largest and most important city in California, and quite an attraction for Mexicans travelling to the US for pleasure, business, or to visit family and friends," says Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena. "In the city of San Jose, the Hispanic market makes up about 30% of the total population. We are certain that we will soon gain momentum with our clients, just as we did in Los Angeles and Oakland."

Volaris will compete on the Guadalajara-San Jose route against Mexicana, which according to Innovata currently operates one daily flight with A320 family aircraft. Mexicana is currently the only foreign carrier serving San Jose.

"Volaris is an outstanding addition that will provide more air service and travel choices for our community," says San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed.